Multinetting Time Synchronization Across Quality-Ranked Subnets
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network synchronization methods face inefficiencies when multiple nodes attempt to synchronize with a network time reference simultaneously, leading to increased network burden and degraded synchronization due to the need for repeated synchronization requests.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilizes a controller to manage synchronization requests through a source table of nodes with varying time qualities, assigning subnets based on these qualities to minimize message exchange, and employs multiple receivers to monitor additional subnets for responses, improving time synchronization efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple nodes transmit synchronization requests simultaneously to the network time reference, then all nodes can attempt to synchronize at the same time, but the network burden increases significantly and synchronization performance degrades
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network into multiple subnets and divides synchronization requests across different subnets. Each node is assigned to a specific subnet for transmitting synchronization requests, which distributes the message load across multiple network segments rather than concentrating all requests at a single network time reference node, thereby reducing network burden while maintaining synchronization productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediate nodes with higher time quality as mediators. When a node cannot directly synchronize with the network time reference, it uses intermediate nodes (nodes with higher time quality than itself) to relay synchronization information. This intermediary approach reduces the number of direct messages to the network time reference while still achieving synchronization for all nodes
2Reliability
If nodes repeatedly transmit synchronization requests when the network time reference cannot respond, then all nodes can eventually achieve synchronization, but the network burden increases and synchronization efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by having nodes maintain a source table that pre-identifies nodes with higher time quality before synchronization is needed. When a node needs synchronization and the network time reference is unavailable, it can immediately query the source table to find appropriate intermediate nodes, eliminating the need for repeated blind requests and reducing time loss while ensuring reliable synchronization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback mechanisms where nodes continuously monitor the time quality of their synchronization sources and update their source tables accordingly. This feedback loop allows nodes to adapt to changing network conditions and select the most appropriate intermediate nodes, ensuring reliable synchronization with minimal repeated requests and reduced time loss
Data Source
AI summary
A method is disclosed of efficiently synchronizing time bases of multi-netting network nodes. A first node transmits a synchronizing request on a subnet associated with the highest time quality in its source table, then simultaneously monitors that subnet and up to three additional subnets associated with lower time qualities in its source table. If the first node does not receive a response, it transmits the request on the subnet associated with the next highest time quality in its source table. A second node simultaneously monitors the subnet associated with its time quality and a plurality of subnets associate with consecutively higher time qualities. Upon receiving the synchronization request, it responds on the subnet associated with its time quality. The disclosed method is fully compatible with networks that include single-netting nodes, and can be implemented by a JTRS node exchanging RTT messages on a Link 16 network.